Many observers feel that for the Gunners to challenge for the Premier League title a new central midfielder is an absolute necessity given their struggles to press the opposition.

Former Arsenal star Paul Merson explained in his column for The Daily Star at the weekend how the Gunners are the worst team in the league when out of possession – a claim which is difficult to argue against.

Dortmund’s Gundogan has been sounded out as a possibility to solve the dilemma, according to The Daily Star, but Hamann believes that Wenger should instead opt one of the Bender brothers, preferably Lars.

“There are players out there, who would instantly make Arsenal a better team. They are supposed to be looking at Ilkay Gundogan at Borussia Dortmund. He’s a very good footballer – but he’s a typical Arsenal player,” he told The Mirror.

“He won’t want to do the dirty work. His instinct is to join in further up the pitch, get a few forward passes going and try to weigh in with a few goals.

“For me, Arsenal would be much better served, going for one of the Bender brothers, especially Lars. Either of those boys would give Wenger something he hasn’t got in midfield.

"Someone who can read the game, is ­naturally defensively minded and who will thrive, operating in front of the back four, making sure Arsenal don’t get exposed.”

Tom Thorogood

I'm a 27 year old language teacher and writer based out in Mexico with a passion for football and swimming. I like to focus on the top European Leagues, especially La Liga, as well as the footballing development in Central and South America. My favourite teams include Derby County, Barcelona and Jagaures de Chiapas.